The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday it will exercise ‘maximum tolerance’ during three days of protests in Manila and Quezon City while keeping public safety a top priority.
The rallies, scheduled from Nov. 16 to Nov. 18, include a large assembly by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) at Rizal Park in Manila and a gathering by the United People’s Initiative (UPI) at the EDSA Shrine and People Power Monument in Quezon City.
PNP Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said police will focus on keeping demonstrations peaceful and orderly.
He also acknowledged that smaller, spontaneous ‘lightning rallies’ may occur but stressed that the police response will remain measured.
‘Our goal is to keep the activity safe for everyone – participants and the public alike. We are committed to professionalism and discipline in handling crowds,’ Nartatez said in a statement.
As part of the security plan, the PNP will deploy 16,433 officers from the National Capital Region Police Office and supporting units to cover major rally sites, including Rizal Park, the EDSA People Power Monument, Ayala Bridge, and Recto Avenue – the latter two known flashpoints in previous protests. About 1,400 officers will be stationed at Ayala Bridge and 1,100 at Recto Avenue.
The plan also includes real-time monitoring of conditions on the ground and the ability to make adjustments as needed. Officers will work in rotating shifts to prevent fatigue and protect their health and well-being.
Nartatez addressed concerns about continuous deployments, noting that police personnel have been on duty since September to safeguard the Black Friday anti-corruption protests.
‘Our personnel have been continuously deployed for several major activities since September. We are implementing a rotation system to give our officers adequate rest between duties,’ he said.
Nartatez said the PNP is taking steps to maintain operational readiness while safeguarding officers’ welfare, noting that he regularly reminds commanders to ensure their personnel remain ‘healthy, alert, and ready for service.’
The PNP is coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and local government units to minimize traffic disruptions and other inconveniences for nearby communities.